Water Quality Scientist - TMDL Planner

State of Montana • Helena, MT

4d • Hybrid

About The Position

Anyone who needs to request a reasonable accommodation in the application or hiring process should contact the HR staff identified on the job listing or by dialing the Montana Relay at 711. Montana Job Service Offices also offer services including assistance with submitting an online application. State government does not discriminate based on race, color, national origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, childbirth or medical conditions related to pregnancy or childbirth, age, physical or mental disability, genetic information, marital status, creed, political beliefs or affiliation, veteran status, military service, retaliation, or any other factor not related to merit and qualifications of an employee or applicant. Are you interested in developing water quality improvement plans for Montana's streams, lakes, and rivers? Are you interested in a mix of field work, data analysis, and technical document writing? We are looking for a Water Quality Scientist to join our team in the TMDL Section of the Water Quality Planning Bureau. This position is focused on the development of total maximum daily loads (TMDLs) and supporting TMDL implementation and other water quality and watershed improvement activities. Writing and implementing TMDLs supports DEQ's mission to assure that water quality is maintained and improved so that state waters can support all their beneficial uses. At the Department of Environmental Quality, our ultimate goal is to champion a healthy environment for a thriving Montana. DEQ employees are the heart of our organization. We value the people and invest in their professional growth, promoting a culture of cross-agency collaboration as we find solutions to the environmental challenges we face. DEQ values – leadership, accountability, customer service, efficiency, excellence, and decision making – are fundamental to our work. Come be a part of the Department of Environmental Quality! The Water Quality Scientist position includes a career ladder for professional development and pay progression.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in environmental science, Environmental Engineering, Aquatic Biology, Geology, Limnology, Hydrology, Natural Resource Management, or a closely related field.
• Three years of work experience in aquatic science, hydrology, water quality planning, water or environmental resource management, nonpoint source pollution prevention, or a closely related field.
• Current valid Driver's License and clean driving record in accordance with State of Montana Vehicle laws.
• Cover letter and resume are required.

Nice To Haves

• Preferred working knowledge of Geographic Information Systems, R programming, and statistical analysis.
• Technical writing and public speaking skills preferred.

Responsibilities

• Developing TMDLs to address pollutant loading sources
• Organizing, analyzing, summarizing, and visually presenting water quality data and pollutant source information
• Working with other internal DEQ program personnel and external stakeholders to compile water quality information and provide guidance and feedback on water quality and wetland improvement activities
• Writing TMDL documents that meet all DEQ and EPA requirements
• Presenting TMDLs, associated data, and scientific information to the public and stakeholders
• Documenting water quality improvement and wetland protection actions and evaluating relative success of these actions

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level